Chinizua

Chinizua is an area of coastal lowland forest that lies to the east of the Mwanza to Inhamitanga Ridge. It has to date proved to be the most convenient locality for finding the coastal lowland forest specials of Mozambique. However, the Zambezi Delta area may prove more accessible and reliable in the future. Good miombo birding is also available on the way down to the forest.

Habitats

Facilities

Birding

Follow the road north from Mwanza and at 11km turn right at the rusted railway crossing sign onto a small dirt track. This track winds its way down to the Chinizua Forest which is 35km from the Mwanza Road.

2. Chinizua Forest is reached 35km from the Mwanza Road. Most of the birds are to be found in the vicinity of the open area on the right hand side, used by most birders to camp, and a little further along next to the first river. The following exciting birds can been seen at Chinizua: East Coast Akalat, White-chested Alethe, Chestnut-fronted Helmet-Shrike, Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, Plain-backed Sunbird, Tiny Greenbul, Black-headed Apalis, African Broadbill, Narina Trogon, Pale Batis and Woodwards' Batis, Blue-spotted Wood-Dove, Blue-mantled Crested-Flycatcher, and African Pitta.

3. Continuing along the road, and past the river in the forest, another river, about 4 km on, will be reached. This is the Chinizua River and there is no bridge. Look for Red-winged Warbler along this track.

4. When it is dry, it is possible to get across the Chinizua River. The northern bank is good for African Pitta, if missed in the first forest. Continuing along this road, several more untouched forests will be located. Approaching the coast, grasslands become the dominant element of the forest/grassland mosaic. It is at least 120 km to the sea, but this area is well worth birding for all the lowland specials. Blue Quail has been found in the wetter grassy areas, and you may even find the Green Tinkerbird.